The road before me stretched long. What was once a bustling city has been reduced to a dusty road packed with abandoned cars and even a few bikes. The bikes were rusted and covered in dirt, barely usable by anyone at its current state. The stores to the sides were boarded, presumably to keep out the unwanted. I took out a crowbar, and began to tear down the boards of one of the shops. It's been long abandoned, from the looks of it. The boards came out quickly, only making a small thud when hitting the ground.

The inside of the small shop was just that, small. The shop floor held shelves that made it difficult for me to maneuver around. My shell always barely scraping against the shelves while moving through. When I made it to the back, I was relieved. The back of the shop was empty of any dead and had enough room for me to relax. Now, it was time to get to work. I dropped my satchel and tightened my mask, I need all my concentration to do this.

Time Break

I rubbed off my sweat and gave a grin to my handy work. The shelves that once littered the floor and were too tightly compacted, were now moved closer to the door to keep out any intruders. I left a small space for me to move the shelf in front of the door away from the door, that way I can get out easily if anything like a fire or explosion should go off. The small space had now given me enough room to sleep and fiddle. First things first though, I need to meditate.

Breath… In… Out… Focus…

Peace is given through meditation. It heightens the senses and makes me one with everything. Even if peace is hard to obtain in a broken world, it doesn't make it impossible. If only I can obtain peace. Donnie!

In… Out…

Donnie! Please, don't give up!

One...Two…

Help me!

Focus…

Don't leave me alone!

Relax…

I stayed in meditation for a few minutes, before angrily sighing in defeat. It's been 3 years since the beginning of the madness, and I am still having nightmares. The worst part is over, so why am I still suffering? PTSD probably. I shook my head in annoyance and rose to my feet. If meditating won't work, I'll try out a few katas. I unsheathed my bo staff and twirled it around. I still got it.

When I finished my katas, it was turning dark. I rummaged through my satchel for my lantern, but instead came across small, jagged piece of plaston. Raphael... , I smiled. I took it out, then pulled out the lantern and lighting up the room. I stared at the jagged piece in my hand and felt my chest tighten. "What would you do if you were here. You were always a fighter. You should've been the one to make it this far, not me.", I said to the piece. Tears threatened to fall. "If you were here, you probably would've punched me for saying that.", I gave a small giggle and clenched the jagged piece. "I miss you Raph.".